Go away

Greetings on this the Thursday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: EPH 6:10-20; PS 144:1B, 2, 9-10; LK 13:31-35
Notes: Jesus was on a mission. A mission of love.

Jesus the Outcast

The Rejection at Nazareth – They rose up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their town had been built, to hurl him down headlong. But he passed through the midst of them and went away (LK 4:29-30).
Herod’s Desire to Kill Jesus – At that time some Pharisees came to him and said, “Go away, leave this area because Herod wants to kill you (LK 13:31).”

The Mission of Jesus

• He does what he wants – establishing the kingdom through his exorcisms and healings.
• He states what he wants – to do the Father’s will.
• He knows what he needs to do – it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem.

The World in Conflict

• Herod wanted to kill Jesus just as he had John the Baptizer killer.
• Some Pharisees came to Jesus to alert him and speak of the need to escape.
• The area is: Galilee and Perea (east of the Jordan) where Herod, the tetrarch, was ruler.
• Jesus was warned: “Go away, leave this area because Herod wants to kill you (LK13:31).”

Jesus addresses everyone

• He replied (for those who warned him): Behold, I cast out demons and I perform healings today and tomorrow (LK 13:32a).
• He replied (for Herod who threatens him): on the third day I accomplish my purpose (LK 13:32b).
• He replied (to his company who trust him): Yet I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day, for it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem (LK 13:33).

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. We bless you from the house of the LORD. (PS 118:26).

First reading
With all prayer and supplication, pray at every opportunity in the Spirit. To that end, be watchful with all perseverance and supplication for all the holy ones and also for me, that speech may be given me to open my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the Gospel for which I am an ambassador in chains, so that I may have the courage to speak as I must.

May we have the courage of John the Baptizer, Paul the Apostle, and Jesus our Friend and Master!

Responsorial Psalm
Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!

Alleluia Verse (LK 19:38; 2:14)
Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.

Gospel Portion
Herod’s Desire to Kill Jesus.
The Lament over Jerusalem.

Jerusalem, Jerusalem

how many times I yearned to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were unwilling!

Jesus never stopped loving everyone!

Even as the threaten and make him an outcast, he simply laments over their hardheartedness.
Not an ounce of revenge. Only love.

Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry